The Girls and Their New "Friends"

Last week, Steve had to travel to Florida for work. He was gone for a few days (not as long as he usually is), and the girls were so excited to see him when he came back on Friday. Well, Sam was definitely happy that he was home; I don't know that Sophia really noticed that he was gone, but she did have a lot of smiles for him ...

Steve was so thoughtful and brought back a stuffed animal for each one of the girls. Samantha's new friend is named Gus the Gator:

Gus has gone EVERYWHERE with Samantha ever since he made his debut in our household three days ago. Gus even has tea parties with us and last night, he was clutched tightly in Sam's arms when I checked on her before going to bed.

Sophia's new "friend" is Frannie the Flamingo:

Frannie is perfect for Sophia because her neck is long and skinny -- ideal for squeezing her little fingers around her. Sometimes Frannie has tea parties with us too, but Sam is very careful to remind me that "Daddy brought 'fla-mink-o' Sophia." In other words, she knows that the flamingo is Sophia's toy.

Oh, notice how strong Sophia is getting these days! She can sit in her bumbo seat and hold her head up for short periods of time all by herself! She is still a little wobbly and I have to be sure to sit close-by when she is in her seat. But I have no doubt that in another week or so, she will be an expert in that chair!